Vol. 528 No. 2
238 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of outstanding applications his Department is processing from third level institutions for funding for capital projects; the number of these that relate to student accommodation; the number that relate to site purchases; the average or typical time for these applications to be considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29971/00]
My Department considers applications for funding for third level capital projects, including site purchases, in the context of campus development masterplans drawn up by institutes of technology. Once masterplans have been approved, campus development takes place on a phased basis as resources permit.
In the case of third level institutions which come under the remit of the higher education authority applications for funding for capital projects, including site purchases, are considered firstly by the authority and then submitted to my Department.
The length of time taken to process applications for capital funding varies depending on the complexity of the proposal and the resources available.
My Department does not grant aid the provision of student accommodation. However, in recognition of the difficulties facing the student population in finding good affordable accommodation, the Government introduced tax incentives to encourage the provision of student rented residential accommodation in section 50 of the Finance Act, 1999.
